What you look for in a netbook will be determined largely by how you intend to use it. The category has two unofficial sections: low-end and high-end.

Low-end notebook

If you want a model that’s small and cheap, perhaps as a portable companion to your main laptop or desktop PC. It’s intended for instant web browsing, email access and general note taking — so portability is paramount. You can expect to find the following key features:

• Thin and light weight (under 1kg) design.
• Built-in 802.11g/n Wi-Fi (wireless local area network) capability. All the test units included Wi-Fi.
• Integrated webcam and microphone for internet voice and video chat. All the test units included both of these.
• Multimedia card reader slot for extra storage.
• Rugged construction.
• Carry bag/pouch.

High-end notebook

If you want a more mainstream netbook, one with more power that could even serve as your primary laptop, you’ll pay a bit more but you’ll get a few extra highly desirable features as well, such as:

• Larger keyboard for easier typing (especially for adult touch-typists).
• Larger screen (up to 10-inch).
• Larger hard drive (160GB or more).
• Multimedia function buttons (located on the chassis).
• Video-out port for connecting to external displays such as a TV, widescreen monitor or projector (all tested models had a VGA port).

Other features

• Optional external DVD burner.
• Optional larger battery or a secondary battery

Check the fine print

Regardless of what type of computer you buy, even with the cheapest netbook, the following are always important:

• Security – We believe all Windows PCs should come with a suite of security software including antivirus, anti-spam, anti-spyware and firewall. Check the licence duration though – most will only come with a 30-day or 90-day licence.
• Warranty – The duration and type of warranty are important if something goes wrong. A minimum one-year warranty should be included, covering parts and labour. Longer warranty, may be available free by registering the netbook with the manufacturer, or as an extra-cost option. Check the type of warranty offered. This can vary from Return to base (RTB) which requires sending the computer to the manufacturer for repairs; Pickup and return (PnR), where the manufacturer arranges to pick up the netbook and return it to you after repair/replacement; or Onsite, which covers a technician visiting you to effect repairs. Also, check the fine print. Who will cover the cost of sending and returning it? If you’re a traveller, does it cover you worldwide? Note that the battery may have separate warranty conditions and also check the manufacturer’s dead pixel policy for the LCD screen, as this can vary greatly between brands.
• Customer support – ideal options include 24-hour phone help, global support, dedicated online troubleshooting and so on. Can you obtain service while travelling? Can you obtain a temporary replacement if sent away for repairs?